Home Insurance Guide

Home insurance for tenants and renters in South Africa

Written by Chloe Adams Managing Editor Reviewed by Nomsa Dlamini RE5 qualified · 12 years in short-term insurance Updated 26 July 2026 Our editorial standards →

Do tenants need home insurance?

As a tenant you don't insure the building - that's the landlord's responsibility - but you should insure your own belongings with contents insurance. It covers your furniture, electronics, appliances and clothing against theft, fire, storm and similar events. You can also add 'all risks' cover for items you carry outside the home, like a laptop or phone.

Key takeaways

Tenants insure their belongings, not the building.
Contents insurance covers theft, fire, storm and water damage to your things.
The landlord's insurance does not cover your possessions.
'All risks' cover adds protection for portable items away from home.
Personal liability cover can protect you if you accidentally damage the property.

Why the landlord's cover isn't enough

Your landlord's buildings insurance protects the structure - not your TV, bed, laptop or clothes. If there is a fire, burst pipe or burglary, the landlord's policy will not replace your belongings. Contents insurance in your own name is the only way to protect what you own.

What to insure and for how much

Work out the replacement value of everything you own, room by room, and insure for that amount. Under-insuring can trigger the 'average' clause, where the insurer pays only part of a claim. Specify high-value items like jewellery and add 'all risks' for anything you take out of the home.

Liability and extras

Many contents policies include personal liability cover, which helps if you accidentally injure someone or damage property you're responsible for. If you share the rental, check whether housemates' items are covered or whether each person needs their own policy.

Frequently asked questions

Does my landlord's insurance cover my belongings?

No. The landlord insures the building structure. Your furniture, electronics and personal items are only covered if you take out your own contents insurance.

Is contents insurance worth it for renters?

If you would struggle to replace your belongings after a fire, flood or burglary, contents cover is usually worth it. Add up the replacement value of everything you own - it is often more than people expect.

Can I cover my laptop and phone away from home?

Yes, by adding 'all risks' or portable-possessions cover and specifying those items. Standard contents cover only protects items inside the home.

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